Keys was supported in nonviolent protests of the eviction by Councilmember Corky Booze, Richmond Chief of Police Chris Magnus, County Supervisor John Gioia and representatives of Mayor Gayle McLaughlin and Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner.

Keys was arrested by Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department deputies— along with his wife, mother and two activists — after a two day sit-in protesting the eviction. They were released the next day.